Must Be the Feeling: The Rise of Gen Z's Political Awakening

Imagine a generation that grew up with smartphones in their hands, climate change on their minds, and social justice in their hearts. This is Gen Z, the cohort born roughly between 1997 and 2012, who are coming of age in a world that feels like it's on the brink of transformation. In the past few years, particularly since the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Gen Z has been making waves in the political arena. From organizing climate strikes to advocating for gun control, they are not just the future; they are the present. This political awakening is happening across the globe, from the streets of Hong Kong to the classrooms of Parkland, Florida, driven by a sense of urgency and a desire for change.

Gen Z's political engagement is fueled by a unique set of circumstances. They are the first generation to grow up with the internet as a constant presence, giving them access to a vast array of information and perspectives. This digital fluency allows them to mobilize quickly and effectively, using social media platforms to spread their message and organize protests. The issues they care about are often deeply personal, such as climate change, which threatens their future, or gun violence, which has directly impacted many of their lives. These experiences have shaped their worldview, making them more progressive and more likely to demand action from those in power.

However, it's important to recognize that not all of Gen Z shares the same political views. While many are progressive, there is also a significant portion that leans conservative. This diversity of thought is a reflection of the broader political landscape, where polarization is increasingly common. Some members of Gen Z are drawn to conservative values, such as individualism and free-market capitalism, and they too are using digital platforms to voice their opinions and rally support. This ideological diversity within Gen Z highlights the complexity of their political identity and the importance of understanding the nuances of their beliefs.

The rise of Gen Z's political activism has not gone unnoticed by older generations. Many millennials and Gen Xers are inspired by the passion and determination of these young activists, seeing them as a force for positive change. However, there are also those who view Gen Z's activism with skepticism, questioning their experience and the feasibility of their demands. This generational divide is not new, but it underscores the challenges that arise when different age groups have differing priorities and perspectives.

Despite these challenges, Gen Z's political engagement is a testament to their resilience and determination. They are not content to sit on the sidelines and wait for change to happen; they are actively working to shape the future they want to see. Whether it's through voting, protesting, or using their voices online, Gen Z is making it clear that they are a force to be reckoned with. Their activism is a reminder that young people have always been at the forefront of social and political change, and their contributions are vital to the progress of society.

As Gen Z continues to grow and evolve, their impact on the political landscape will only become more pronounced. They are a generation that is unafraid to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from those in power. Their passion and commitment to creating a better world are inspiring, and their voices are essential in the ongoing fight for justice and equality. Whether you agree with their views or not, it's impossible to ignore the influence of Gen Z and the feeling that they are just getting started.